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Environmental solutions for earth control measures in Singapore

Environmental solutions for earth control measures in Singapore

Singapore’s dense urban environment and high annual rainfall make managing silty water discharge from construction sites crucial. These measures protect the city-state’s water bodies and drainage systems, especially during the Northeast Monsoon (December to early March) and the Southwest Monsoon (June to September), when continuous rain and flooding are common challenges.

The Public Utilities Board (PUB), Singapore's national water agency, has spearheaded stringent Earth Control Measures (ECM) to curb the pollution of reservoirs and prevent clogged drains caused by silt. These ECM regulations are vital in maintaining environmental sustainability while supporting urban development.

Timeline of ECM implementation in Singapore

2000: Laying the groundwork

PUB introduced guidelines for controlling erosion and sediment at construction sites. The Environmental Control Officer for Specified Construction Sites (ECO(SCS)) Scheme was launched, emphasizing good environmental practices and requiring ECM implementation.

2002: Code of practice revision

The Code of Practice on Pollution Control was revised to include technical requirements for pollution control, such as preventing silty discharge from construction sites.

2006: ECM becomes mandatory

Earth Control Measures became mandatory, requiring all construction projects to implement systems to prevent silt-laden water from entering the public drainage system.

2008: Introduction of real-time monitoring

Absolute Instrument Systems (AIS) launched the TSS Monitoring System, offering real-time monitoring with CCTV. This advancement strengthened compliance with ECM regulations.

2011: Stricter ECM enforcement

PUB intensified enforcement, conducting inspections and imposing fines on contractors who failed to comply with ECM standards.

2017: TSS monitoring system integration

The Code of Practice on Surface Water Drainage mandated using TSS monitoring systems linked to PUB to ensure compliance with discharge limits.

2022: Enhanced oversight with CCTV

PUB required the integration of closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems with TSS monitoring to improve the oversight of surface runoff, as outlined in the ECM Submission Guidelines.

ECM requirements and global practices

Singapore’s approach to silt management

Singapore’s ECM requirements highlight the need for silt control to protect its water resources. These measures ensure environmental safety and maintain clean waterways essential for urban life.

Global practices in ECM

Other countries also enforce strict ECM measures:

  • United States: The EPA mandates Best Management Practices (BMPs) for erosion and sediment control at construction sites.

  • United Kingdom: The Environment Agency requires measures to prevent silt pollution, safeguarding rivers and lakes.

  • Australia: Local councils mandate sediment control plans to protect stormwater systems.

While silt pollution sources may vary, construction activities remain a significant contributor globally, making environmental management essential across industries.

Consequences of non-compliance in Singapore

Non-compliance with ECM regulations can lead to hefty fines and environmental damage. For example:

  • In 2018, Company X was fined $10,000 for discharging silty water into public drains.

  • In 2019, Company Y faced a $15,000 penalty for similar infractions.

These fines underscore the importance of adhering to PUB's stringent ECM regulations. Beyond penalties, non-compliance threatens Singapore’s water quality and urban resilience.

Effective ECM solutions

Auto silt valves

Devices like the Absolute Silt Valve are designed to automatically halt water flow if it exceeds PUB's TSS limits of 50 mg/m³. These valves, launched by AIS in 2024, play a critical role in ensuring compliance and protecting the environment.

Wheel wash systems

Wheel Wash Systems, such as the Absolute Wheel Wash System, ensure vehicles exiting construction sites have clean wheels, preventing soil from reaching public roads. This reduces the risk of silty runoff and ensures adherence to PUB guidelines.

Raising awareness and best practices

Educating contractors about the importance of ECM and the environmental benefits of managing silty water is crucial. Innovative solutions like the TSS Monitoring System provide real-time oversight, enhancing compliance and protecting Singapore’s water resources.

By adopting advanced ECM technologies, contractors can reduce environmental risks, avoid fines, and contribute to sustainable urban development.

Conclusion

Earth Control Measures protect Singapore’s water resources and ensure environmental sustainability. Contractors can meet regulatory requirements and minimize their environmental impact by implementing advanced technologies like the Absolute Silt Valve, TSS Monitoring System, and Wheel Wash System.

Singapore can maintain its high water management and environmental protection standards through continuous education, innovative solutions, and strict enforcement.